AARP: Check on welfare of elderly

Saturday

Nov 30, 2013 at 12:01 AMNov 30, 2013 at 2:53 PM

The holiday weekend brings forth many out-of-town visitors, and according to the American Association of Retired Persons, also provides the perfect opportunity to assess the status of elderly friends and relatives.

Philip A. Vanno

The holiday weekend brings forth many out-of-town visitors, and according to the American Association of Retired Persons, also provides the perfect opportunity to assess the status of elderly friends and relatives.

For many families throughout New York, this is the once-a-year time that they gather under the same roof,” said AARP spokesman David Irwin “In addition to enjoying time with family and friends, it’s also prime time to check on the well being, financial, health and mobility of older loved ones.”

Here are some things AARP suggests:

* Take a look around their homes to make sure it’s still safe and appropriate.

* Gauge their driving ability and take stock of alternate transportation options.

* Evaluate whether prescriptions are being taken properly and are up to date.

* Remind them that Medicare open enrollment season closes Saturday, Dec. 7.

* Assist in filling out forms and organizing paperwork.

* Make sure all bills are being paid in a timely fashion.

* Go over financial information and make sure someone can access it in case of an emergency.